Blog

According to the theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), premenstrual tension (PMT) also known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in the time leading up to your menstrual cycle may be caused by stagnation of Qi. Here are some tips to move your Qi and prevent mood swings, irritability, breast distension and bloating:

Complementary therapies such as massage, reflexology or acupuncture: If you feel like the tips above are not working you may need a helping hand. Massage works in a similar way to exercise, moving Qi when it may be stuck. Tell your practitioner if you have any pain. Abdominal massage may be particularly beneficial at this time. Reflexology and acupuncture work on the meridians of the body to move Qi.

Remember that PMT is not always caused by Qi stagnation. If you feel like the above tips are not helpful or make you feel worse, seek the advice of a TCM practitioner.

Need more advice? Want to book an appointment?

T: 07582 684 756 E: hello@sunnyjaspal.com www.sunnyjaspal.com

One of the most common complaints patients come to see me for is back pain, shoulder pain and neck pain. In fact more sick days are taken due to back, neck and shoulder pain that any other ailment. So why do so many of us suffer with these conditions and what can we do to manage and prevent them?

Many of the patients I see are office workers, often sitting for long hours and working with computers. Poor posture, an unsuitable work station and working without breaks is a recipe for back pain, shoulder pain and neck pain. This type of injury is often classed as a repetitive strain injury and may also include the hand, wrist, forearm and elbow. These problems may arise in any situation (not just at a desk) where incorrect posture is maintained.

Back pain, shoulder pain and neck pain can also be caused by stress. Stress makes us feel tense, so in turn we tense our bodies, which leads to pain.

Do you want to be pain free? Then follow these easy tips:

Maintain correct and relaxed posture when working at your computer:

Ensure the top of your screen is at eye level so you head is in a neutral position. If you work at a laptop then consider using a laptop riser.

Elbows should have a 90 degree bend so that the tops of your arms are relaxed by your side, with your keyboard and mouse within easy and comfortable reach. Laptop users consider using an external keyboard.

Feet should be flat on the floor (use a footrest if they do not reach) and knees and hips should have a 90 degree bend.

Sit upright in a relaxed posture, using cushions to support your lower back if needed.

Take regular breaks – use this as an excuse to keep yourself hydrated.

Manage stress by creating a calm working environment.

How can massage help?

Massage works by relieving tension in the many layers of the body’s soft tissues by using specialist massage techniques. What is needed here is more than just a ‘relaxation’ massage, however the relaxation should still be included and is important for managing emotional stress. This combination of relaxing the body and mind makes massage the perfect treatment for management of neck pain, shoulder pain and back pain!

Do you have a question or comment? For more information please visit www.sunnyjaspal.com or call Sunny today on 07582 682 746, hello@sunnyjaspal.com.

How do the use of Aromatherapy oils enhance Massage and Reflexology treatments?

Aromatherapy adds another beneficial layer to Massage and Reflexology treatments.

The use of aromatherapy oils at a first glance is perceived as a luxury. However, many would agree that aromatherapy adds a beneficial layer to treatments.

The use of plants for medicine is an ancient tradition. Aromatherapy employs techniques such inhalation and massage. Both of these routes of administration are safe if used in the correct quantities.

Inhalation affects the limbic system, the part of central nervous system which deals with memory and emotion.

Massage treatment (including reflexology) allows the oils to be absorbed into the blood stream, and the massage itself affects the nervous system. Relaxation or stimulation of the nervous system depends upon which aromatherapy oils and massage techniques are used.

The goal of the Aromatherapist is to assess each client and create a bespoke blend. By looking at the properties of essential oils we can create blends for specific conditions for each individual.

Research into the field of Aromatherapy is somewhat scarce, however studies do exist. For example, a systematic review of Lavender oil for poor sleep suggested lavender was of benefit[1]. A more recent study showed a positive link between Lavender and stress reduction[2]. With regards to massage and aromatherapy used together, a study found improvements in knee pain when a blend of orange and ginger were used[3].